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Ticketed events. Times vary within window.

In any industry, the ability to develop internal and external business relationships is important. In commercial real estate, it’s an absolute necessity. Join Cassie Wells, owner of Modern Business Development, as she guides us through the Business Relationship Gardening Method . Using this proven process, Wells has defined the stages required to help users build lasting business relationships that bring them recurring business. Wells doesn’t just define Business Development; she brings it to life offering useful tips and tricks to help you “harvest” success! If your 2026 goals include revenue growth, you won't want to miss this!

As global trade dynamics, food production patterns and technology adoption continue to reshape cold storage, investors and developers face new questions about where – and how – to deploy capital. This session will offer a forward-looking view of the sector, exploring key market forces from tariff impacts and public refrigerated warehouses (PRW) inventory levels to investor sentiment, stock performance and debt availability. Panelists will share what’s changed over the past year, how strategies differ across capital sources, and which asset-level features are driving deal decisions today.

Leverage smart design strategies to future-proof your cold storage asset for evolving user needs and automation readiness

Cold storage is breaking out of the freezer aisle. From pharma and life sciences to battery production, automotive testing and even data centers, new sectors are fueling demand for advanced climate-controlled facilities. This session will showcase high-growth applications, share strategies for adapting projects to specialized needs, and highlight how developers and investors can capture the next wave of non-food cold storage opportunities.

Cold storage construction is unlike any other type of build – and success depends on early, clear communication between developers and contractors. This session brings both sides to the table, with experienced professionals sharing what they wish the other group better understood. Hear key insights from both perspectives, including how the industry has evolved, current innovations, and the unique challenges of cold storage projects. Learn how stronger collaboration can prevent costly missteps and lead to more efficient, high-performance facilities.

The cold storage sector is evolving, bringing fresh challenges and exciting opportunities. Shifting tenant demand, advancing regulations and a focus on energy efficiency and automation are driving innovation in operations and performance. This session will unpack key trends, from regulatory shifts like refrigerant phase-outs to operational advancements, and provide practical insights to help developers, investors and operators navigate the market and capitalize on growth in a dynamic cold chain landscape. Gain candid insights into what’s real, what’s outdated and what’s next in cold chain strategy.

Discover the challenges and opportunities in converting dry warehouses into cold storage.

Speculative cold storage development surged during the pandemic but has since entered a more cautious phase. This session will explore the economics and strategy behind building on spec, from how the model began to where it’s headed over the next few years. Panelists will examine current projects in the pipeline, evolving tenant demand and the shifting criteria for underwriting and appraising speculative facilities. Learn how developers are adjusting to new market realities and where opportunities still exist in this capital-intensive, high-stakes asset class.

Join Aquiles Suarez, NAIOP’s Senior Vice President for Government Affairs, for this session that will cover legislative policy changes related to taxation, tariffs, logistics chains and other topics that impact the cold storage industry.

Wrap up the conference with a final round of drinks and conversation. This is your last chance to reconnect with peers, meet new contacts and follow up on the ideas and insights shared at I.CON Cold Storage 2025. Whether you're solidifying a new partnership or just swapping stories over a cold one, don’t miss this laid-back networking finale.

903 N 2nd Street, Phoenix, AZ, 85004

Wrap up I.CON Storage at Saxum’s signature gathering at Palma. Enjoy an evening of flowing cocktails, meaningful conversations and an ambiance thoughtfully curated to bring people together. Indulge in light hors d’oeuvres, hand-selected music and great company.

RSVP by Sept. 8